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The Night Horde SoCal #3
Fire & Dark
Connor Elliott is Sergeant at Arms of the Night Horde SoCal. He was brought up in the MC life and has never wanted anything else. But he’s found out the hard way that love and the outlaw life don’t always mix. Now he avoids romantic entanglements.
Pilar Cordero is a firefighter in San Bernardino County. Her demanding career has taken its toll, so she, too, has decided to live her life without romance. She focuses on her friends and her family and takes physical fulfillment when and where she wants it.
When Connor and Pilar meet, best-laid plans quickly go awry.
In the midst of their struggle to understand the power of their connection and reconcile what they thought they wanted with what they know they need, Pilar’s family and Connor’s club collide. The result is explosive, and the aftermath leaves no one unscarred.
Can they come through the fire and dark together?
Note: explicit sex and violence.
Pilar Cordero is a firefighter in San Bernardino County. Her demanding career has taken its toll, so she, too, has decided to live her life without romance. She focuses on her friends and her family and takes physical fulfillment when and where she wants it.
When Connor and Pilar meet, best-laid plans quickly go awry.
In the midst of their struggle to understand the power of their connection and reconcile what they thought they wanted with what they know they need, Pilar’s family and Connor’s club collide. The result is explosive, and the aftermath leaves no one unscarred.
Can they come through the fire and dark together?
Note: explicit sex and violence.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
21 people are currently reading
386 people want to read
About the author
Susan Fanetti
84 books1,418 followersI was born and raised in the Midwest, but I was transplanted into the dusty soil of Northern California and have apparently taken root there. An inveterate geek and gamer, I am a fan of many things considered pop culture and maybe even lowbrow.
As a reader, my favorite genres are science fiction and fantasy, but as a writer, I've found my home in romance--or perhaps it's better to say simply "love stories." I have a yen to try other genres, too, at some point, but for now my muse wants to tell stories about lovers and families.
I write for the joy of it, and I write stories that I want to read. If others like them, too, that's just the cherry on top. I’m not interested in rules and formulae. I follow my muse and my characters and let them take me where they want to go, wherever that might be. I like big emotions, dark and light.
I like complicated characters with flaws and weaknesses as well as strengths, and I like each character’s strengths and weaknesses to be different from those of other characters. I’m much more concerned that my characters be interesting and diverse than that they be widely considered to be likable. I try to create people, not types.
Likewise, I want my stories each to be distinct from the others. Once I’ve told a story, I don’t want to tell it again. So even within a series, one of my books might be very different from the next. Some might be very dark, others equally mild.
That isn’t to say there aren’t trends and recurrences in my work. I’m drawn to certain themes and settings, and my muse has her favorite toys and tools. But I guard against those tendencies becoming a formula.
Find my blog at www.susanfanetti.com
Find my FB author page: https://www.facebook.com/authorsusanf...
A note: I don't spend much time here on Goodreads. I try not to read any reviews of my own work. Besides, this is a site for readers, but since I write at a fairly manic pace, and read and edit for other writers, I don't have much time to read recreationally. Mainly, I log on to update my info. So if you message me here, it might be a while before I see it.
As a reader, my favorite genres are science fiction and fantasy, but as a writer, I've found my home in romance--or perhaps it's better to say simply "love stories." I have a yen to try other genres, too, at some point, but for now my muse wants to tell stories about lovers and families.
I write for the joy of it, and I write stories that I want to read. If others like them, too, that's just the cherry on top. I’m not interested in rules and formulae. I follow my muse and my characters and let them take me where they want to go, wherever that might be. I like big emotions, dark and light.
I like complicated characters with flaws and weaknesses as well as strengths, and I like each character’s strengths and weaknesses to be different from those of other characters. I’m much more concerned that my characters be interesting and diverse than that they be widely considered to be likable. I try to create people, not types.
Likewise, I want my stories each to be distinct from the others. Once I’ve told a story, I don’t want to tell it again. So even within a series, one of my books might be very different from the next. Some might be very dark, others equally mild.
That isn’t to say there aren’t trends and recurrences in my work. I’m drawn to certain themes and settings, and my muse has her favorite toys and tools. But I guard against those tendencies becoming a formula.
Find my blog at www.susanfanetti.com
Find my FB author page: https://www.facebook.com/authorsusanf...
A note: I don't spend much time here on Goodreads. I try not to read any reviews of my own work. Besides, this is a site for readers, but since I write at a fairly manic pace, and read and edit for other writers, I don't have much time to read recreationally. Mainly, I log on to update my info. So if you message me here, it might be a while before I see it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
May 11, 2015
3.5 stars. Review posted May 11, 2015
Due to personal reasons, my review mojo isn't the best. So I'm going to make this very short and not really detailed.
Fire & Dark started off very promising. I loved it until the 67% mark but the last 30% practically ruined a highly entertaining read for me. Right off the bat I felt that Connor and Pilar fit each other (not only mentally but also physically) *fans self* Pilar was a great match for Connor because she could keep him in line and then some. I gotta say that woman is fit as a fiddle and her abs are the shit. Both of them had the gift of gab and I just loved their verbal exchange. It was so much fun!
They did their shots. Pilar swallowed hers first, and as she set the glass down, she asked, "So, we gonna fuck, then?"
Oh, and let's not forget how hot they were together when they got down and dirty. I don't mind rough and sweaty sex and these two had intense almost tattooed on their foreheads. There's definitely a difference between a very young puss and a mature woman, right Connor? Honestly, I was actually hoping that Connor's love interest would be older than him. She wasn't. Pilar is 30 and Connor 36. Though it's definitely progress given the fact that he was banging young women between 18 and 22 before he met Pilar.
"You want to take me on a date?"
He shrugged. "Call it a date if you want. Eat, drink, fight, fuck--just sounds like a Friday night to me."
As Connor opened the passenger door, he spoke over the roof of her Element. "I'm guessing my score can take a couple of hits. And I'm not used to a girl digging her heels in like you do."
"You need to start spending time with more women, then." As she put her foot in the car and prepared to slide in, she stopped. "Play your cards right, though, and I'll dig these heels in deep later."
Damn.
"So nobody else. Exclusive. And you're away half the week. Awesome."
As he started to pull her jeans off her hips, she grabbed his hand. "You can deal with that, right?"
"Can I stop by for a fuck on a fire engine? Saw that in an old movie once--up on the hoses."
Fucking Backdraft. "No, we are not going to fuck on an engine."
"That's not your kink, either, huh?"
See? It was a fuck-ton of fun till…it wasn't anymore.
What didn't work for me was the corny drama and Connor's OTT case of jealousy The tension and problems during the final 30% between the MCs irritated me. All the little quibbles affected my reading experience negatively and the cheesy drama made me roll my eyes. Yet I'm sure that many readers won't mind it. So this is a case of it's me, it's not the book. I'm really sorry but I can't help and feel underwhelmed.
I'd love to read Trick's journey to his HEA because he's got depth. He's a thinker and loves to read. Though next up are Bibi and Hoosier.
Recommended read.
Due to personal reasons, my review mojo isn't the best. So I'm going to make this very short and not really detailed.
Fire & Dark started off very promising. I loved it until the 67% mark but the last 30% practically ruined a highly entertaining read for me. Right off the bat I felt that Connor and Pilar fit each other (not only mentally but also physically) *fans self* Pilar was a great match for Connor because she could keep him in line and then some. I gotta say that woman is fit as a fiddle and her abs are the shit. Both of them had the gift of gab and I just loved their verbal exchange. It was so much fun!
They did their shots. Pilar swallowed hers first, and as she set the glass down, she asked, "So, we gonna fuck, then?"
Oh, and let's not forget how hot they were together when they got down and dirty. I don't mind rough and sweaty sex and these two had intense almost tattooed on their foreheads. There's definitely a difference between a very young puss and a mature woman, right Connor? Honestly, I was actually hoping that Connor's love interest would be older than him. She wasn't. Pilar is 30 and Connor 36. Though it's definitely progress given the fact that he was banging young women between 18 and 22 before he met Pilar.
"You want to take me on a date?"
He shrugged. "Call it a date if you want. Eat, drink, fight, fuck--just sounds like a Friday night to me."
As Connor opened the passenger door, he spoke over the roof of her Element. "I'm guessing my score can take a couple of hits. And I'm not used to a girl digging her heels in like you do."
"You need to start spending time with more women, then." As she put her foot in the car and prepared to slide in, she stopped. "Play your cards right, though, and I'll dig these heels in deep later."
Damn.
"So nobody else. Exclusive. And you're away half the week. Awesome."
As he started to pull her jeans off her hips, she grabbed his hand. "You can deal with that, right?"
"Can I stop by for a fuck on a fire engine? Saw that in an old movie once--up on the hoses."
Fucking Backdraft. "No, we are not going to fuck on an engine."
"That's not your kink, either, huh?"
See? It was a fuck-ton of fun till…it wasn't anymore.
What didn't work for me was the corny drama and Connor's OTT case of jealousy The tension and problems during the final 30% between the MCs irritated me. All the little quibbles affected my reading experience negatively and the cheesy drama made me roll my eyes. Yet I'm sure that many readers won't mind it. So this is a case of it's me, it's not the book. I'm really sorry but I can't help and feel underwhelmed.
I'd love to read Trick's journey to his HEA because he's got depth. He's a thinker and loves to read. Though next up are Bibi and Hoosier.
Recommended read.
May 11, 2015
LIVE -> http://amzn.to/1QrFSB5
Every time I finish a book in The Night Horde SoCal series I state that it is my new favorite book in this series. It happened again...I’m claiming this my new favorite book for the series. I finished this book 2 days ago and I’m still basking in it’s greatness. I haven’t wanted to read anything else because I’m still replaying sections of the book in my mind.
Connor is the club badass aka Sergeant at Arms. “He's a problem-solver, a fixer. He tends to be loud and quick to fight.”
Pilar is hero aka firefighter. “She's strong and smart. She's funny. She's cynical, but she believes in heroes. She f*cking is a hero. She's hotheaded.”
Their relationship is fierce! Both are protectors, by nature, but they are stubborn to a fault. Neither one feels they can have a relationship beyond one night stands because of their line of work.
Pilar is straight up a hero in her line of work - “We don’t judge, we don’t hurt. We just help.” Connor on the other hand is in a line of work where he's “a man who beefed with gangsters, who sat down with drug lords. Who planned assassinations. A killer. A drug runner. An outlaw. A man who brought violence into the world.”
Ms. Fanetti has a remarkable way of creating a compelling world of bikers and their old ladies. Every story I’ve read, by her, feels authentic, like she’s secretly writing about her life and we’re watching it play out on the pages of the book. Each woman in the series is a force to be reckon with - they’re all diverse; a movie star, a model, a teacher, an artist, a social worker, a firefighter, and mother to them all. The males may all belong to the same mc but their personalities vary from a hothead to a hippy-ish nerd to an enforcer and the list goes on. Each story along with the characters is not a carbon copy but it’s own unique tale. Ms. Fanetti's is a sensation in mc genre.
Meet the men of Night Horde of SoCal Motorcycle Club(& their women):
Hoosier: President.
♥Bibi♥: Mama to the Horde family
Bart: (30ish years old) Vice President
♥Riley♥: movie star.
Connor: (36 years old) SAA. Hoosier's son. Best friend to Trick.
♥Pilar♥: firefighter
Lakota: Secretary & Treasurer.
Sherlock: Intelligence Officer.
Muse: (43 years old) Enforcer. Somewhat of a mentor to Demon
♥Sid♥: social worker
Demon: (32 years old) Enforcer. A scarred man from a rough upbringing.
♥Faith♥: born and raised in an MC
Diaz:patch.
♥Ingrid♥: model
Ronin: (50 years old) patch.
Trick:patch. Nerd. Vegetarian. Best friend to Connor.
J.R.:patch. Only black member of of the Horde.
Keanu: new patch.
Jerry: new prospect.
RELEASE DATE: May 9, 2015
pre-order | order: http://amzn.to/1QrFSB5
SERIES:
Continuing story where secondary characters from the first book become the main focus in subsequent books.
Book 1 - Muse | Book 2 - Demon | Book 3 - Connor
To find out if there will be more books in the series click here.
Novella
Book 2.5 - Nolan
GIVEAWAY: 2 kindle copies.
Find info here-> http://wp.me/p4uAPW-1kz
**Complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**
Every time I finish a book in The Night Horde SoCal series I state that it is my new favorite book in this series. It happened again...I’m claiming this my new favorite book for the series. I finished this book 2 days ago and I’m still basking in it’s greatness. I haven’t wanted to read anything else because I’m still replaying sections of the book in my mind.
Connor is the club badass aka Sergeant at Arms. “He's a problem-solver, a fixer. He tends to be loud and quick to fight.”
Pilar is hero aka firefighter. “She's strong and smart. She's funny. She's cynical, but she believes in heroes. She f*cking is a hero. She's hotheaded.”
Their relationship is fierce! Both are protectors, by nature, but they are stubborn to a fault. Neither one feels they can have a relationship beyond one night stands because of their line of work.
Pilar is straight up a hero in her line of work - “We don’t judge, we don’t hurt. We just help.” Connor on the other hand is in a line of work where he's “a man who beefed with gangsters, who sat down with drug lords. Who planned assassinations. A killer. A drug runner. An outlaw. A man who brought violence into the world.”
Ms. Fanetti has a remarkable way of creating a compelling world of bikers and their old ladies. Every story I’ve read, by her, feels authentic, like she’s secretly writing about her life and we’re watching it play out on the pages of the book. Each woman in the series is a force to be reckon with - they’re all diverse; a movie star, a model, a teacher, an artist, a social worker, a firefighter, and mother to them all. The males may all belong to the same mc but their personalities vary from a hothead to a hippy-ish nerd to an enforcer and the list goes on. Each story along with the characters is not a carbon copy but it’s own unique tale. Ms. Fanetti's is a sensation in mc genre.
Meet the men of Night Horde of SoCal Motorcycle Club(& their women):
Hoosier: President.
♥Bibi♥: Mama to the Horde family
Bart: (30ish years old) Vice President
♥Riley♥: movie star.
Connor: (36 years old) SAA. Hoosier's son. Best friend to Trick.
♥Pilar♥: firefighter
Lakota: Secretary & Treasurer.
Sherlock: Intelligence Officer.
Muse: (43 years old) Enforcer. Somewhat of a mentor to Demon
♥Sid♥: social worker
Demon: (32 years old) Enforcer. A scarred man from a rough upbringing.
♥Faith♥: born and raised in an MC
Diaz:patch.
♥Ingrid♥: model
Ronin: (50 years old) patch.
Trick:patch. Nerd. Vegetarian. Best friend to Connor.
J.R.:patch. Only black member of of the Horde.
Keanu: new patch.
Jerry: new prospect.
RELEASE DATE: May 9, 2015
pre-order | order: http://amzn.to/1QrFSB5
SERIES:
Continuing story where secondary characters from the first book become the main focus in subsequent books.
Book 1 - Muse | Book 2 - Demon | Book 3 - Connor
To find out if there will be more books in the series click here.
Novella
Book 2.5 - Nolan
GIVEAWAY: 2 kindle copies.
Find info here-> http://wp.me/p4uAPW-1kz
**Complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**
August 3, 2015
4-4.5 Stars
This is book is a perfect example of how fickle my reading moods can be. I started Fire & Dark a few months ago, and struggled with the first 5%, I just wasn't connecting, so I put it aside. On a whim this weekend, I decided to pick it back up...and I could not stop reading. I was completely wrapped up in this story.
The third book in the Night Horde SoCal series focuses on Connor, the Sergeant at Arms and a local firefighter, Pilar. After sharing a stockroom quickie at the bar one night, Pilar seeks out Connor's help when she is unable to locate her troublesome brother. After rescuing her brother from a local gang, Connor and Pilar find themselves unable to stay away from each other - but their lifestyles' have taught them that relationships are just heartache waiting to happen. They are happy with their choices, but haven't found anyone to truly accept them. So while they decide to 'hook up' from time to time, no complications, just sex - they both struggle with what they truly want.
"You can't know who I am unless you're in my life. But don't you fucking tell me you want in and think you can say that and then leave any time, when you decide you were wrong. Don't jerk me around like that."
Along with trying to navigate a new relationship, it also seems helping out Pilar's brother may have more blow back than either of them could ever have expected. These two are strong willed, passionate, and bad-ass, each in their own way. Their chemistry was hot, and they were a dynamic couple, I couldn't help but pull for.
I did struggle with a few things, but at the same time - I think the author handled the situation realistically, so I appreciate that...That is one of my favorite things about Fanetti's books, she doesn't sugarcoat things, her stories tend to have an authentic feel, her characters are flawed and frustrating, yet she creates a world you can't help but lose yourself in.
This is book is a perfect example of how fickle my reading moods can be. I started Fire & Dark a few months ago, and struggled with the first 5%, I just wasn't connecting, so I put it aside. On a whim this weekend, I decided to pick it back up...and I could not stop reading. I was completely wrapped up in this story.
The third book in the Night Horde SoCal series focuses on Connor, the Sergeant at Arms and a local firefighter, Pilar. After sharing a stockroom quickie at the bar one night, Pilar seeks out Connor's help when she is unable to locate her troublesome brother. After rescuing her brother from a local gang, Connor and Pilar find themselves unable to stay away from each other - but their lifestyles' have taught them that relationships are just heartache waiting to happen. They are happy with their choices, but haven't found anyone to truly accept them. So while they decide to 'hook up' from time to time, no complications, just sex - they both struggle with what they truly want.
"You can't know who I am unless you're in my life. But don't you fucking tell me you want in and think you can say that and then leave any time, when you decide you were wrong. Don't jerk me around like that."
Along with trying to navigate a new relationship, it also seems helping out Pilar's brother may have more blow back than either of them could ever have expected. These two are strong willed, passionate, and bad-ass, each in their own way. Their chemistry was hot, and they were a dynamic couple, I couldn't help but pull for.
I did struggle with a few things, but at the same time - I think the author handled the situation realistically, so I appreciate that...That is one of my favorite things about Fanetti's books, she doesn't sugarcoat things, her stories tend to have an authentic feel, her characters are flawed and frustrating, yet she creates a world you can't help but lose yourself in.
May 26, 2015
4.5 What is a Hero Anyway Stars * * * * 1/2
From the moment we are able to understand what is good, what a positive action is as a child...we understand what a Hero is supposed to be. At least, what a mainstream idea of one is. Our first heroes are usually a parent or close relative who stepped in and comforted us, who took the time to listen to us or was there to protect us when we needed it... no matter the inconvenience to them. Everyday people are heroes all the time...we just don't always hear about it.
In this installment of the Night Horde SoCal series, this was the main focus for me. The major question was how do we accept our actions and understand how they impact others...how we are able to balance out the heroic actions against the brutal and finally, even in the most outlaw of lives, heroic actions occur.
We have the main characters we are familiar with; the Night Horde family, all of the other opposing clubs and the politics of manipulation from the rising star La Zorra. These books need to be read in order as the subtle complexity of layering from one installment to the next is increasing.
Fanetti takes this biker's world and tells its truth... the good, the bad, the ugly and the compelling real. This story starts like any other… Connor and his fellow brothers are out letting loose after a run. We get a taste of what Connor likes; uncomplicated girls….yes, the fresh but legal variety. Those “looking for Love in all the wrong places Barbies”… the “I want to experience a walk on the wild side hook ups…and then go home and shower off the dirty I have just done” ones. Connor is more than happy to flirt, tease and bang the hell out of them for a night…with the cold reality of life slapping them in the face as they climb over the bodies strewn in all types of disarray the next morning at the Horde Clubhouse.
At The Deck, a place where all of the people of Madrone are welcome, Connor spies a 21st birthday group of fresh ones and works his magic. All of the guys have laid claim on each of the girls…even after they teased Connor of being a little long in the tooth at 36 for this party.
Conner has been working this Birthday Barbie up with all of his moves and he thinks she is ready for action. But as she gets up to go to the restroom, he sees the writing on the wall…she is past tipsy and making coherent decisions… on her way to drunk, something he never plays with. His pussy is always aware and consensual. As he looks around the bar he sees something which catches his eye; a rowdy group of firefighters at another table. The surprising sound of husky female laughter causes him to hone in on one of them, Pilar Cordero. She is a knock out in every way; beauty in eyes, body, hair and just plain smoking.
Barbie comes back, still drunk and wanting Connor but that is not going to happen. He tries to let her down easy but she becomes nasty. Connor moves to the bar to escape her taunting and see Pilar requesting 7 shots. He steps in and adds to the order an 8th for himself. That opens the door he wanted to work his usual magic with this gal…only Pilar is not his usual target…and lets him know it right away.
The banter is quick; stimulating and when Pilar’s other firefighters come to take the shots from her … she knows they purposely did it to let her hang with Connor. This was their way of letting her know they saw her scoping him out…seeing the fine mass of man he was. She new first hand because he had fought one of the other guys in one of the rings they had here at The Deck. She knew what she would be getting if she decided to hook up….
Because that was what she wanted and needed; after the tragic callout her station had just handled, she need the release of mind numbing sex… sex which engaged, which distracted from the pain and feelings of loss, devastation…sex which cleared out the screams and sounds of pain she heard after these parts of her job…the bodies pulled from wreckage…the loved ones left behind to witness her work… Yes, hard fucking was in order.
What Pilar does next shocks the hell out of Connor; she is the one to make the move…to blatantly say Let’s fuck and do it now….She is the one to take Connor by the hand into the storage room of The Deck and ask for what she wants…Connor is no slouch and after making sure they are on the same page- goes right to it. They are combustible together…and Pilar is loving every minute but wants more…she needs this thing of fighting first… pushing back heightens her sex. She is not looking for a rape fantasy - Connor makes sure of it…he draws a line with that stuff. No, she just likes it rough, raw and hard which Connor delivers. They come out of the room and see Pilar’s buds are gone. She is ok as she has her own ride…so both Connor and her say their goodbyes not expecting anything in the future.
Life continues; Night Horde business progresses and Pilar and Connor go about their routine.
Being a firefighter was all Pilar ever wished to be…they were respected by all… the upscale, the everyday man and even those who feared the police. She was from a family who knew to fear police; her family was in another Biker Club, The Assassins. She lost her beloved father early… and remembered her life with him as good… Then things changed with her mother marring another from the Club. Pilar loved the little brother from the moment of his birth and looked out for him. But nothing with this biker life brought good and once again Pilar lost her Mother and new Step Father. Her Nana made the sacrifice and took them away from all they knew to Madrone. There Nana worked 3 jobs to make ends meet and give them a start to a new way of living. Pilar adjusted, did well becoming a strong student and following her dream to become a firefighter. Her brother Hugo was another story. He took advantage of his Nana’s guilt, her softness and never matured to see how he should live; as a responsible person… owning up to his actions, whatever they were.
Hugo was a bottomless pit of trouble, heartache and concern for Nana and Pilar. Nana because she could only see the small boy who lost his parents…Pilar because she loved him, helped raise him as best as a child could and was just as frustrated by his reckless actions.
Hugo had always been an attraction to the Assassins; he was the fruit of one of their own… so even though Hugo refused to “jump” in and become official, he hung out with them. Unfortunately, this time one of Hugo’s actions put him in deep and Pilar has to see how to get him out. The problem is how; he is surrounded by these members in their hangout. Her firefighter friends won’t know how to work this…she remembers Connor and decides to ask for his help. She knows the Night Horde have helped out the community in the past…and she is at a loss.
This is where the book takes us…this is the turning point for all to come. Connor and Pilar had been thinking about their time… how great it was… how good they felt together…how right. When Pilar comes and asks for assistance, Connor listens; he explains how Hugo is being held across biker lines. By going to this location the delicate balance of these clubs could get ugly…He takes the request to Hoosier, his President and it is not because Pilar and him hooked up… it is because the Horde would try to help those who needed it.
Connor takes a few of the club with him to make sure all are protected from what could lay ahead; a shoot out, trouble of all sorts because the Assassins will not take this lightly… there coming into their territory. The outcome was tricky; Hugo was released with conditions and threats. Connor had to restrain himself when Raul made threats to Pilar. She held her own and once they were all out of there taking Hugo to the hospital for his extensive injuries, Connor and Pilar connected again.
These two would dance for a bit…feeling their way to each other. Pilar was all alpha until she was under and settled with Connor. Then she would be that woman; soft, wrapped in his arms. She would need to feel the fight; to work hard against it all and then get that release to be the soft one. The challenging, the topping from the bottom was something new for Connor and he was digging all the friction and responses. They were working in the physical; it was the communication of the mental which took a great deal of time… because they both thought they wanted one thing when they started…and then the tables turned…Neither of them could get on the same page at the same time…or say the right things they were actually thinking…causing all types of confusion.
I loved these two together. Each was strong and dedicated to who they were before meeting and hooking up. It did not change after. The trials and hurdles they went through would make any couple break. What was remarkable was the communication style these two had when they did talk to each other straight… when they didn’t second guess.
Connor was really impressive as he was drawn. This man had his life; loved his parents and saw what they had together. He wanted that type of love and commitment. He tried early on to be with someone that way; they broke his spirit when they realized the reality of his life. Biker life is hard; unforgiving in its day to day existence. Things happen which are not from the “Leave it to Beaver” lifestyle and not everyone can become one with it. Connor learned that the hard way so he protected this massive heart he had…because when he loved…. He LOVED… The Death Do Us Part LOVE. As a reader, it was something to experience.
Again, in these books, there is so much more than the couple of choice’s love story; there is the continuing drama of the Night Horde. The Club has developed an alliance with La Zorra; she has risen to the top of the drug business and ousted all of the other “bad seed” participants. Oh, she didn’t ask them nicely or send them on a vacation; no, she worked her men, took them out and reestablished her command of the land. The Horde had been very helpful in cleaning house in their area. These two powerbrokers were at a place where a stronger alliance, a more equal footing needed to happen.
All of these actions while reading bring focus on the question Fanetti presents for each book; this was about Heroism… of who are they… and can good be done while also doing bad…It may seem like a simple answer and in many ways it is… But in the way these characters live their life…it is important for all of them to see the good they do even when their hands maybe dirty at other times.
Fanetti presents these characters; she gives them hearts, souls and allows us to love them. She does not glamorize what they do. There is death, drug running, violence and whoring. It is all there yet she shows the other side of these people as who they are when they love their children, their nanas, their spouses. They have holiday meals and Friday night Sing offs. They live a life like any other and one that is not at all ….all at the same time….and to me, it is fascinating.
~~~ Before Reading ~~~
What does it say about me when I schedule personal time to just immerse myself in any Susan Fanetti book....
It means I am HOOKED...ADDICTED and need my FIX!
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
From the moment we are able to understand what is good, what a positive action is as a child...we understand what a Hero is supposed to be. At least, what a mainstream idea of one is. Our first heroes are usually a parent or close relative who stepped in and comforted us, who took the time to listen to us or was there to protect us when we needed it... no matter the inconvenience to them. Everyday people are heroes all the time...we just don't always hear about it.
In this installment of the Night Horde SoCal series, this was the main focus for me. The major question was how do we accept our actions and understand how they impact others...how we are able to balance out the heroic actions against the brutal and finally, even in the most outlaw of lives, heroic actions occur.
We have the main characters we are familiar with; the Night Horde family, all of the other opposing clubs and the politics of manipulation from the rising star La Zorra. These books need to be read in order as the subtle complexity of layering from one installment to the next is increasing.
Fanetti takes this biker's world and tells its truth... the good, the bad, the ugly and the compelling real. This story starts like any other… Connor and his fellow brothers are out letting loose after a run. We get a taste of what Connor likes; uncomplicated girls….yes, the fresh but legal variety. Those “looking for Love in all the wrong places Barbies”… the “I want to experience a walk on the wild side hook ups…and then go home and shower off the dirty I have just done” ones. Connor is more than happy to flirt, tease and bang the hell out of them for a night…with the cold reality of life slapping them in the face as they climb over the bodies strewn in all types of disarray the next morning at the Horde Clubhouse.
At The Deck, a place where all of the people of Madrone are welcome, Connor spies a 21st birthday group of fresh ones and works his magic. All of the guys have laid claim on each of the girls…even after they teased Connor of being a little long in the tooth at 36 for this party.
Conner has been working this Birthday Barbie up with all of his moves and he thinks she is ready for action. But as she gets up to go to the restroom, he sees the writing on the wall…she is past tipsy and making coherent decisions… on her way to drunk, something he never plays with. His pussy is always aware and consensual. As he looks around the bar he sees something which catches his eye; a rowdy group of firefighters at another table. The surprising sound of husky female laughter causes him to hone in on one of them, Pilar Cordero. She is a knock out in every way; beauty in eyes, body, hair and just plain smoking.
Barbie comes back, still drunk and wanting Connor but that is not going to happen. He tries to let her down easy but she becomes nasty. Connor moves to the bar to escape her taunting and see Pilar requesting 7 shots. He steps in and adds to the order an 8th for himself. That opens the door he wanted to work his usual magic with this gal…only Pilar is not his usual target…and lets him know it right away.
The banter is quick; stimulating and when Pilar’s other firefighters come to take the shots from her … she knows they purposely did it to let her hang with Connor. This was their way of letting her know they saw her scoping him out…seeing the fine mass of man he was. She new first hand because he had fought one of the other guys in one of the rings they had here at The Deck. She knew what she would be getting if she decided to hook up….
Because that was what she wanted and needed; after the tragic callout her station had just handled, she need the release of mind numbing sex… sex which engaged, which distracted from the pain and feelings of loss, devastation…sex which cleared out the screams and sounds of pain she heard after these parts of her job…the bodies pulled from wreckage…the loved ones left behind to witness her work… Yes, hard fucking was in order.
What Pilar does next shocks the hell out of Connor; she is the one to make the move…to blatantly say Let’s fuck and do it now….She is the one to take Connor by the hand into the storage room of The Deck and ask for what she wants…Connor is no slouch and after making sure they are on the same page- goes right to it. They are combustible together…and Pilar is loving every minute but wants more…she needs this thing of fighting first… pushing back heightens her sex. She is not looking for a rape fantasy - Connor makes sure of it…he draws a line with that stuff. No, she just likes it rough, raw and hard which Connor delivers. They come out of the room and see Pilar’s buds are gone. She is ok as she has her own ride…so both Connor and her say their goodbyes not expecting anything in the future.
Life continues; Night Horde business progresses and Pilar and Connor go about their routine.
Being a firefighter was all Pilar ever wished to be…they were respected by all… the upscale, the everyday man and even those who feared the police. She was from a family who knew to fear police; her family was in another Biker Club, The Assassins. She lost her beloved father early… and remembered her life with him as good… Then things changed with her mother marring another from the Club. Pilar loved the little brother from the moment of his birth and looked out for him. But nothing with this biker life brought good and once again Pilar lost her Mother and new Step Father. Her Nana made the sacrifice and took them away from all they knew to Madrone. There Nana worked 3 jobs to make ends meet and give them a start to a new way of living. Pilar adjusted, did well becoming a strong student and following her dream to become a firefighter. Her brother Hugo was another story. He took advantage of his Nana’s guilt, her softness and never matured to see how he should live; as a responsible person… owning up to his actions, whatever they were.
Hugo was a bottomless pit of trouble, heartache and concern for Nana and Pilar. Nana because she could only see the small boy who lost his parents…Pilar because she loved him, helped raise him as best as a child could and was just as frustrated by his reckless actions.
Hugo had always been an attraction to the Assassins; he was the fruit of one of their own… so even though Hugo refused to “jump” in and become official, he hung out with them. Unfortunately, this time one of Hugo’s actions put him in deep and Pilar has to see how to get him out. The problem is how; he is surrounded by these members in their hangout. Her firefighter friends won’t know how to work this…she remembers Connor and decides to ask for his help. She knows the Night Horde have helped out the community in the past…and she is at a loss.
This is where the book takes us…this is the turning point for all to come. Connor and Pilar had been thinking about their time… how great it was… how good they felt together…how right. When Pilar comes and asks for assistance, Connor listens; he explains how Hugo is being held across biker lines. By going to this location the delicate balance of these clubs could get ugly…He takes the request to Hoosier, his President and it is not because Pilar and him hooked up… it is because the Horde would try to help those who needed it.
Connor takes a few of the club with him to make sure all are protected from what could lay ahead; a shoot out, trouble of all sorts because the Assassins will not take this lightly… there coming into their territory. The outcome was tricky; Hugo was released with conditions and threats. Connor had to restrain himself when Raul made threats to Pilar. She held her own and once they were all out of there taking Hugo to the hospital for his extensive injuries, Connor and Pilar connected again.
These two would dance for a bit…feeling their way to each other. Pilar was all alpha until she was under and settled with Connor. Then she would be that woman; soft, wrapped in his arms. She would need to feel the fight; to work hard against it all and then get that release to be the soft one. The challenging, the topping from the bottom was something new for Connor and he was digging all the friction and responses. They were working in the physical; it was the communication of the mental which took a great deal of time… because they both thought they wanted one thing when they started…and then the tables turned…Neither of them could get on the same page at the same time…or say the right things they were actually thinking…causing all types of confusion.
I loved these two together. Each was strong and dedicated to who they were before meeting and hooking up. It did not change after. The trials and hurdles they went through would make any couple break. What was remarkable was the communication style these two had when they did talk to each other straight… when they didn’t second guess.
Connor was really impressive as he was drawn. This man had his life; loved his parents and saw what they had together. He wanted that type of love and commitment. He tried early on to be with someone that way; they broke his spirit when they realized the reality of his life. Biker life is hard; unforgiving in its day to day existence. Things happen which are not from the “Leave it to Beaver” lifestyle and not everyone can become one with it. Connor learned that the hard way so he protected this massive heart he had…because when he loved…. He LOVED… The Death Do Us Part LOVE. As a reader, it was something to experience.
Again, in these books, there is so much more than the couple of choice’s love story; there is the continuing drama of the Night Horde. The Club has developed an alliance with La Zorra; she has risen to the top of the drug business and ousted all of the other “bad seed” participants. Oh, she didn’t ask them nicely or send them on a vacation; no, she worked her men, took them out and reestablished her command of the land. The Horde had been very helpful in cleaning house in their area. These two powerbrokers were at a place where a stronger alliance, a more equal footing needed to happen.
All of these actions while reading bring focus on the question Fanetti presents for each book; this was about Heroism… of who are they… and can good be done while also doing bad…It may seem like a simple answer and in many ways it is… But in the way these characters live their life…it is important for all of them to see the good they do even when their hands maybe dirty at other times.
Fanetti presents these characters; she gives them hearts, souls and allows us to love them. She does not glamorize what they do. There is death, drug running, violence and whoring. It is all there yet she shows the other side of these people as who they are when they love their children, their nanas, their spouses. They have holiday meals and Friday night Sing offs. They live a life like any other and one that is not at all ….all at the same time….and to me, it is fascinating.
~~~ Before Reading ~~~
What does it say about me when I schedule personal time to just immerse myself in any Susan Fanetti book....
It means I am HOOKED...ADDICTED and need my FIX!
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
November 26, 2015
It's LIVE!!! -> AMAZON
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Fire & Dark ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
There are never enough stars to express my feelings toward a Susan Fanetti book.
I just know - from that first page - that I will be sucked into a world full of wonder and meaning and deep seated emotion. A world where the characters are my friends, my lovers, my family. I always feel like her books are a place I can go, not to escape life, but to experience life.
Fire & Dark is the third book in The Night Horde SoCal series. After each book I think “it’s the best one yet”. They just keep getting better, and better.
This story is about …
Connor - SAA of The Night Horde SoCal and son of the President. He’s a bear, but not always the cuddly kind. He can be ruthless. But he’s also a smooth-talking charmer, with a penchant for pretty young things.
and …
Pilar - the only female firefighter in San Bernardino County. Most of the time, she’s just one of the guys. But she does have a girlie side, which she keeps hidden away. Most of the time she is a fierce warrior. And she doesn’t mind when things get a little rough.
Together …
They learn what it takes to be a hero … And that being a hero doesn’t always mean being brave, all alone.
This book took me on a very wild ride. I think I experienced every single emotion possible. There are moments of lighthearted fun - laughter included.
There are moments of amazingly erotic naughtiness.
There are moments of pain and regret.
Oh, and let’s throw high anxiety, and devastation into the mix.
Fantastically, it’s not just the main characters driving the emotion. No - the secondary characters play a huge role in this story, without taking away from the main plotline of Connor & Pilar.
It may sound like a lot to fit into one single book. But let me tell you … absolutely nothing about this book feels forced or manufactured. Each emotion, each scenario feels honest and real. That is the magic of Susan Fanetti. And that is why she’s in my top author’s list (it’s a 3 way tie for first place, please don’t make me choose) - because I am never disappointed with her work.
How do I spell amazing? F.A.N.E.T.T.I.
Reading Order:
Novella:
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Fire & Dark ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
There are never enough stars to express my feelings toward a Susan Fanetti book.
I just know - from that first page - that I will be sucked into a world full of wonder and meaning and deep seated emotion. A world where the characters are my friends, my lovers, my family. I always feel like her books are a place I can go, not to escape life, but to experience life.
Fire & Dark is the third book in The Night Horde SoCal series. After each book I think “it’s the best one yet”. They just keep getting better, and better.
This story is about …
Connor - SAA of The Night Horde SoCal and son of the President. He’s a bear, but not always the cuddly kind. He can be ruthless. But he’s also a smooth-talking charmer, with a penchant for pretty young things.
and …
Pilar - the only female firefighter in San Bernardino County. Most of the time, she’s just one of the guys. But she does have a girlie side, which she keeps hidden away. Most of the time she is a fierce warrior. And she doesn’t mind when things get a little rough.
Together …
They learn what it takes to be a hero … And that being a hero doesn’t always mean being brave, all alone.
You be my hero, and I’ll be yours.
This book took me on a very wild ride. I think I experienced every single emotion possible. There are moments of lighthearted fun - laughter included.
There are moments of amazingly erotic naughtiness.
There are moments of pain and regret.
Oh, and let’s throw high anxiety, and devastation into the mix.
Fantastically, it’s not just the main characters driving the emotion. No - the secondary characters play a huge role in this story, without taking away from the main plotline of Connor & Pilar.
It may sound like a lot to fit into one single book. But let me tell you … absolutely nothing about this book feels forced or manufactured. Each emotion, each scenario feels honest and real. That is the magic of Susan Fanetti. And that is why she’s in my top author’s list (it’s a 3 way tie for first place, please don’t make me choose) - because I am never disappointed with her work.
How do I spell amazing? F.A.N.E.T.T.I.
Reading Order:
Novella:
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
May 12, 2015
4.5 LOVIN' Stars
"I look at you Across those fires and the dark." ~ Weldon Kees, “Late Evening Song”
Fire and Dark is the third book in the Nigh Horde SoCal Series. This series has been a tender one. The men in this club love their family, their brothers, their women, and the community they live in. The characters love deeply, play hard, fight to kill, and live to protect.
Pilar is a firefighter. She is the only woman in her firehouse. She is fearless and unabashedly takes up with any man she wants to. She is not ashamed to get exactly what she wants. She is regimented with her routine. She loves her Nana and her little brother. Even though he is always getting into trouble, she tries her best to take care of him. She has overcome poverty and violence in order to make something of herself.
"Everybody loves firefighters. We’re not like cops. We’re heroes, straight up. We don’t judge, we don’t hurt. We just help. It’s about the most important work you can do when you can’t afford to be a scientist or whatever.”-Pilar
Connor is the Sergeant at Arms of the Horde and the son of the MC President. He likes to live life. He goes to bed with any woman he wants and then sits with his family for Sunday dinner. When Pilar sets her sights on Connor the connection was instant and smoking hot!
"Damn, he was hot. Right in her wheelhouse, too: tall, brawny, and just the right kind of furry— the well-kept kind, only where it ought to be."-Pilar
Pilar and Connor share a quickie in the back room of a bar. It was off the charts. There was no shame and they both left happy and satisfied. When Pilar's brother gets into some trouble with the local gang, she comes to Connor for help.
The Horde comes in to help her and get her brother out. This is the event that brings Connor and Pilar together. They begin to spend time together. They both seem to want more out of the life they are living and yet they are too afraid to admit it. The dialogue between the two was natural and very amusing!
“We should work out together sometime. Do you run?”-Pilar
“Only if somebody’s chasing me. I lift.”-Connor
As the plot continues to thicken, Connor grapples with the emotions he is feeling for Pilar. He is jealous of the relationship she has with her firefighter partner and best friend. He doesn't feel like he is good enough.
"Connor was crazed. She couldn’t keep up with his changing, charging moods: his need for her this morning, his fury and rejection of her later, his comfort of her in the aftermath, his demand of her in the clubhouse, his omnipresent jealousy."-Pilar
In true Fanetti fashion, a single incident breaks the whole damn place apart! That moment is like an avalanche that causes things to unravel between Pilar and Connor. They are both broken on the inside and desperate to find their way back together.
"I don’t know how to say it. When I’m away from you, I want to be with you. When I’m with you, I don’t want to leave. When something happens, good or bad, I want to tell you. When I think about what’s next, the future, I want you in it. I see you in my life."-Connor
Overall, Fire and Dark is a fantastic read. I loved being back in the club. The characters are endearing and the camaraderie they share is like nothing else. Connor and Pilar were well matched and I thoroughly enjoyed the journey. I can't give this read a complete five star because I struggled slightly with the last 20 percent of the book. Still, I highly recommend anything by the great Fanetti. Her writing is like nothing else. To experience these moments with the Horde is time well spent!
"Just love me. I just want to be close."-Pilar
“Then let’s go to bed. I want to love all of you.”-Connor
"I look at you Across those fires and the dark." ~ Weldon Kees, “Late Evening Song”
Fire and Dark is the third book in the Nigh Horde SoCal Series. This series has been a tender one. The men in this club love their family, their brothers, their women, and the community they live in. The characters love deeply, play hard, fight to kill, and live to protect.
Pilar is a firefighter. She is the only woman in her firehouse. She is fearless and unabashedly takes up with any man she wants to. She is not ashamed to get exactly what she wants. She is regimented with her routine. She loves her Nana and her little brother. Even though he is always getting into trouble, she tries her best to take care of him. She has overcome poverty and violence in order to make something of herself.
"Everybody loves firefighters. We’re not like cops. We’re heroes, straight up. We don’t judge, we don’t hurt. We just help. It’s about the most important work you can do when you can’t afford to be a scientist or whatever.”-Pilar
Connor is the Sergeant at Arms of the Horde and the son of the MC President. He likes to live life. He goes to bed with any woman he wants and then sits with his family for Sunday dinner. When Pilar sets her sights on Connor the connection was instant and smoking hot!
"Damn, he was hot. Right in her wheelhouse, too: tall, brawny, and just the right kind of furry— the well-kept kind, only where it ought to be."-Pilar
Pilar and Connor share a quickie in the back room of a bar. It was off the charts. There was no shame and they both left happy and satisfied. When Pilar's brother gets into some trouble with the local gang, she comes to Connor for help.
The Horde comes in to help her and get her brother out. This is the event that brings Connor and Pilar together. They begin to spend time together. They both seem to want more out of the life they are living and yet they are too afraid to admit it. The dialogue between the two was natural and very amusing!
“We should work out together sometime. Do you run?”-Pilar
“Only if somebody’s chasing me. I lift.”-Connor
As the plot continues to thicken, Connor grapples with the emotions he is feeling for Pilar. He is jealous of the relationship she has with her firefighter partner and best friend. He doesn't feel like he is good enough.
"Connor was crazed. She couldn’t keep up with his changing, charging moods: his need for her this morning, his fury and rejection of her later, his comfort of her in the aftermath, his demand of her in the clubhouse, his omnipresent jealousy."-Pilar
In true Fanetti fashion, a single incident breaks the whole damn place apart! That moment is like an avalanche that causes things to unravel between Pilar and Connor. They are both broken on the inside and desperate to find their way back together.
"I don’t know how to say it. When I’m away from you, I want to be with you. When I’m with you, I don’t want to leave. When something happens, good or bad, I want to tell you. When I think about what’s next, the future, I want you in it. I see you in my life."-Connor
Overall, Fire and Dark is a fantastic read. I loved being back in the club. The characters are endearing and the camaraderie they share is like nothing else. Connor and Pilar were well matched and I thoroughly enjoyed the journey. I can't give this read a complete five star because I struggled slightly with the last 20 percent of the book. Still, I highly recommend anything by the great Fanetti. Her writing is like nothing else. To experience these moments with the Horde is time well spent!
"Just love me. I just want to be close."-Pilar
“Then let’s go to bed. I want to love all of you.”-Connor
December 14, 2015
5 anam cara STARS
Another fantastic read! This is Connor Elliot's story, son of Hooj, the President of the Night Horde SoCal MC and also Sergeant-at-Arms. You've got two people that on the surface should have nothing in common and whose worlds should never mesh.
Connor Elliot - an enforcer, a killer, a drug runner, an outlaw.
Pilar Cordero – a firefighter and every bit the hero.
“You be my hero, and I’ll be yours.”
Both feel the chemistry, their connection as they do the dance to see if maybe, just maybe they can fit into each other’s worlds. If they can accept each other for who they are and for what they do.
Pilar and Connor are like an erupting volcano…
they're intense, passionate...
...both physically strong and stubborn. They almost came close to Isaac and Lilli (my ultimate Fanetti couple) in how they were so equally matched with a fierceness for each other that was so visceral.
”She has given herself to this man, her real self. Pilar, not Cordero. Or both of them, really, all of her – the strong and the weak, the fierce and the vulnerable. She needed him to keep safe what she had never given to anyone else.”
I know I say this every time but Susan Fanetti creates the most amazing female characters. The Fanetti women are dynamite, each and every one of them – “None of them had anything in common. And all of them had everything in common.”
This was a beautiful, moving and intense story! I just can't get enough of the Night Horde.
For more reviews and blog posts.
Another fantastic read! This is Connor Elliot's story, son of Hooj, the President of the Night Horde SoCal MC and also Sergeant-at-Arms. You've got two people that on the surface should have nothing in common and whose worlds should never mesh.
Connor Elliot - an enforcer, a killer, a drug runner, an outlaw.
Pilar Cordero – a firefighter and every bit the hero.
“You be my hero, and I’ll be yours.”
Both feel the chemistry, their connection as they do the dance to see if maybe, just maybe they can fit into each other’s worlds. If they can accept each other for who they are and for what they do.
Pilar and Connor are like an erupting volcano…
they're intense, passionate...
...both physically strong and stubborn. They almost came close to Isaac and Lilli (my ultimate Fanetti couple) in how they were so equally matched with a fierceness for each other that was so visceral.
”She has given herself to this man, her real self. Pilar, not Cordero. Or both of them, really, all of her – the strong and the weak, the fierce and the vulnerable. She needed him to keep safe what she had never given to anyone else.”
I know I say this every time but Susan Fanetti creates the most amazing female characters. The Fanetti women are dynamite, each and every one of them – “None of them had anything in common. And all of them had everything in common.”
This was a beautiful, moving and intense story! I just can't get enough of the Night Horde.
For more reviews and blog posts.
June 10, 2020
June 2020 - What I loved about this book during this read was I understood Connor on a deeper level. His relationship with himself and who he is especially but also those relationships he's cultivated with his entire family. There's so calming in his steadiness and also in his manic, when he has it. The shifts in his world bring vulnerabilities that bring deeper meaning to the club as a whole. And of course Pilar, as always, is just a bad ass.
Reread as part of the entire series - August/September 2017 - Connor and Pilar's story is so easy to devour, just as it was when I first read it. There's so much to each character. Their struggles, pains, and vulnerabilities are precious gems throughout the story because so much of their outward, outgoing personalities wrap around the strength they each hold. When they collide and combust all hell breaks loose in their lives. Watching them navigate their relationship through the rubble is a special reading experience. Connor's relationship with his brothers, Trick especially, and the brilliant bond between he and his parents are also shining lights. I loved this reread so much too.
**Fire & Dark generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
BUY HERE: here
5+++ "You in or not?" Stars
I read, no I DEVOURED, this book in one day. Connor and Pilar are such an amazing couple who represent the very best of what Susan Fanetti offers her readers. Five days later and I'm still continually re-reading highlights and chapters re-experiencing the magic of their love story in Fire & Dark.
Each and every book of Fanetti's gives her readers something different, something fresh to discover about her writing while they consistently give blunt, no bullshit, real honesty from her characters. Fire & Dark provides us all the usual Fanetti elements we love and crave while delivering something fresh.
Neither Connor nor Pilar are looking for anybody special and as the book opens up there is no question what each are looking for that night. Let the onslaught of brutal honesty and hilarity ensue. These two are a match made in Fanetti heaven, perfectly complimenting each other in the best of ways. Each are who they are without pity or remorse. Strong heroines are always Fanetti's favorite flavor and Pilar may just be the strongest yet both physically and emotionally. She was a pleasure to meet. A perfect heroine. And Connor, well, if you read my reviews you know I love the Fanetti enforcer types. Connor is no different. A perfect hero.
Connor and Pilar are explosive. From the very beginning of the book sparks fly. Actually sparks fly, catch fire, and spread throughout the entire journey in typical, perfect Fanetti style passion. Her sex scenes are written so unbelievably well you'll want to be in a storage room with Connor in no time. These go at each other without regret or remorse and each learns new ways of intimacy through the other. It was a thrill to read.
These two are open and honest from the beginning and stand by their choices even if they're choices they change. Pilar has a weakness in her family exploiting a vulnerability in herself and revealing a vulnerability in Connor. Turns out the "big guy" has a soft spot for the feisty firefighter. As trouble finds the Night Horde SoCal in a HUGE way, Connor and Pilar must navigate a series of events and emotions to discover not the realness of their connection but the longevity of it.
Family is always a major theme woven through the words of a Fanetti story. Connor Elliot has had a great home life with two amazing parents whom he both loves and respects deeply. There were moments of this book between he and Bibi and also he and Hoosier that I simply adored. It's because of those strong roots that Connor is the man we see in Fire & Dark. Getting a birds eye view into that family dynamic gave me all the feels when it mattered most. Likewise, the love between Pilar and her grandmother shines.
The whole MC is back in a big way. We see and hear a lot from Trick and I'm super excited to read more about him. In addition to the MC we get an added bonus of meeting the fire company in which Pilar works. The camaraderie and tension between the two groups is intoxicating.
As the situation of the Night Horde MC escalates into new territory with LaZorra, Fanetti sets us up in a variety of intriguing ways exposing the many possibilities for the Night Horde SoCal series. We see so much happen binding them to the cartel and making those connections stronger. Some plot twists and unexpected surprises allude to much more outlaw MC fun to come.
There are so many funny moments in this book. So many memorable moments. Touching moments. Beyond sexy moments. Hard as hell moments. Each giving us an open, honest, REAL look into the lives of two people who are heroes to each other.
Laughing, crying, smiling, frowning you get it all with Fanetti in another exceptionally written piece of MC Romance. Nobody does MC quite like Susan Fanetti. Nobody does love stories quite like Susan Fanetti. There's a reason why this author is my absolute favorite, inside the pages of Fire & Dark will tell you why.
Favorite Quotes:
"And the grin was back - the melty one he used when he was getting his way."
"She was fucking complicated, a puzzle through and through, from the wavy hair on her head to the little, horseshoe-shaped birthmark on her ankle."
"He could never be her hero".
Night Horde SoCal Series reviews:
Strength & Courage Book One
Shadow & Soul Book Two
Today & Tomorrow A Night Horde SoCal Side Trip
Reread as part of the entire series - August/September 2017 - Connor and Pilar's story is so easy to devour, just as it was when I first read it. There's so much to each character. Their struggles, pains, and vulnerabilities are precious gems throughout the story because so much of their outward, outgoing personalities wrap around the strength they each hold. When they collide and combust all hell breaks loose in their lives. Watching them navigate their relationship through the rubble is a special reading experience. Connor's relationship with his brothers, Trick especially, and the brilliant bond between he and his parents are also shining lights. I loved this reread so much too.
**Fire & Dark generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
BUY HERE: here
5+++ "You in or not?" Stars
I read, no I DEVOURED, this book in one day. Connor and Pilar are such an amazing couple who represent the very best of what Susan Fanetti offers her readers. Five days later and I'm still continually re-reading highlights and chapters re-experiencing the magic of their love story in Fire & Dark.
Each and every book of Fanetti's gives her readers something different, something fresh to discover about her writing while they consistently give blunt, no bullshit, real honesty from her characters. Fire & Dark provides us all the usual Fanetti elements we love and crave while delivering something fresh.
Neither Connor nor Pilar are looking for anybody special and as the book opens up there is no question what each are looking for that night. Let the onslaught of brutal honesty and hilarity ensue. These two are a match made in Fanetti heaven, perfectly complimenting each other in the best of ways. Each are who they are without pity or remorse. Strong heroines are always Fanetti's favorite flavor and Pilar may just be the strongest yet both physically and emotionally. She was a pleasure to meet. A perfect heroine. And Connor, well, if you read my reviews you know I love the Fanetti enforcer types. Connor is no different. A perfect hero.
Connor and Pilar are explosive. From the very beginning of the book sparks fly. Actually sparks fly, catch fire, and spread throughout the entire journey in typical, perfect Fanetti style passion. Her sex scenes are written so unbelievably well you'll want to be in a storage room with Connor in no time. These go at each other without regret or remorse and each learns new ways of intimacy through the other. It was a thrill to read.
These two are open and honest from the beginning and stand by their choices even if they're choices they change. Pilar has a weakness in her family exploiting a vulnerability in herself and revealing a vulnerability in Connor. Turns out the "big guy" has a soft spot for the feisty firefighter. As trouble finds the Night Horde SoCal in a HUGE way, Connor and Pilar must navigate a series of events and emotions to discover not the realness of their connection but the longevity of it.
Family is always a major theme woven through the words of a Fanetti story. Connor Elliot has had a great home life with two amazing parents whom he both loves and respects deeply. There were moments of this book between he and Bibi and also he and Hoosier that I simply adored. It's because of those strong roots that Connor is the man we see in Fire & Dark. Getting a birds eye view into that family dynamic gave me all the feels when it mattered most. Likewise, the love between Pilar and her grandmother shines.
The whole MC is back in a big way. We see and hear a lot from Trick and I'm super excited to read more about him. In addition to the MC we get an added bonus of meeting the fire company in which Pilar works. The camaraderie and tension between the two groups is intoxicating.
As the situation of the Night Horde MC escalates into new territory with LaZorra, Fanetti sets us up in a variety of intriguing ways exposing the many possibilities for the Night Horde SoCal series. We see so much happen binding them to the cartel and making those connections stronger. Some plot twists and unexpected surprises allude to much more outlaw MC fun to come.
There are so many funny moments in this book. So many memorable moments. Touching moments. Beyond sexy moments. Hard as hell moments. Each giving us an open, honest, REAL look into the lives of two people who are heroes to each other.
Laughing, crying, smiling, frowning you get it all with Fanetti in another exceptionally written piece of MC Romance. Nobody does MC quite like Susan Fanetti. Nobody does love stories quite like Susan Fanetti. There's a reason why this author is my absolute favorite, inside the pages of Fire & Dark will tell you why.
Favorite Quotes:
"And the grin was back - the melty one he used when he was getting his way."
"She was fucking complicated, a puzzle through and through, from the wavy hair on her head to the little, horseshoe-shaped birthmark on her ankle."
"He could never be her hero".
Night Horde SoCal Series reviews:
Strength & Courage Book One
Shadow & Soul Book Two
Today & Tomorrow A Night Horde SoCal Side Trip
May 11, 2015
Bravo...Bravo! Fire & Dark was by far my favorite in the entire series. The dynamics of Pilar and Connor's relationship was shocking! The whole storyline stirred a variety of emotions. Yes I was the angry outraged bitch, cussing up a storm. At one point I wanted to grab Connor by the scruff of his neck and smash his face in. So I guess in all fairness I should move on to the review!
Don't get me wrong I love the douchebag. What's not to love, hot as hell, sexy as sin, deadlier than the most toxic poisons, bad ass extraordinaire! And a complete manipulating cruel asshole! Even when he's self destructing, he's dangerous. If Connor was to hear me, he'd smile, maybe bow and give that one of a kind flirtatious wink, saying those are only a few of my redeeming qualities. When it comes to women, he has us in two categories. The ones he loves and loves deeply are family, the rest are pussy. If your complicated then your dropped like the used condom he tied off. The others he walks away from.
Pilar doesn't have time for romance, not many relationships survives her line of work. Kept busy helping her grandmother and chasing down her trouble making brother Hugo, there's never a dull moment. The Assassins want him and now he owes a debt, one that will get paid in a pound of flesh.
All hell breaks lose when Pilar turns to the Sergeant at Arms of the Night Horde of SoCal for help. Can you feel it, the intensity building in the series? Susan Fanetti is leading us like sheep's to the slaughterhouse. The suspense of the storyline is killing me, cause I know, just know whatever it is, its going to be monumental! Can't wait for the next issue!
Don't get me wrong I love the douchebag. What's not to love, hot as hell, sexy as sin, deadlier than the most toxic poisons, bad ass extraordinaire! And a complete manipulating cruel asshole! Even when he's self destructing, he's dangerous. If Connor was to hear me, he'd smile, maybe bow and give that one of a kind flirtatious wink, saying those are only a few of my redeeming qualities. When it comes to women, he has us in two categories. The ones he loves and loves deeply are family, the rest are pussy. If your complicated then your dropped like the used condom he tied off. The others he walks away from.
Pilar doesn't have time for romance, not many relationships survives her line of work. Kept busy helping her grandmother and chasing down her trouble making brother Hugo, there's never a dull moment. The Assassins want him and now he owes a debt, one that will get paid in a pound of flesh.
All hell breaks lose when Pilar turns to the Sergeant at Arms of the Night Horde of SoCal for help. Can you feel it, the intensity building in the series? Susan Fanetti is leading us like sheep's to the slaughterhouse. The suspense of the storyline is killing me, cause I know, just know whatever it is, its going to be monumental! Can't wait for the next issue!
December 19, 2015
Not at all what I've come to expect from Susan Fanetti. I've got a bad taste in my mouth from this book.
Not safe... At All.
Not safe... At All.
May 15, 2016
4.5 stars!!
I honestly don't even know what to say about this book right now. It's the fastest I've read a book in a really long time. It's just that I literally could not put this down. I swore to myself I was just going to read the first chapter and then I wouldn't read until I finished my work but somehow I looked up and 3 hours had passed by and I hadn't moved once from my spot. And I took a moment to process that...and then I went right back in.
This book isn't easy. These characters are not easy to read at times. Pilar is tough as nails and the way she went after what she wanted, including men, kind of surprised me a bit in the beginning. But I loved her character and I loved how sure of herself she was. It also didn't hurt that she was hispanic. It's always nice to me to see some diversity in books and I love how perfectly Susan Fanetti brought it in without making it look like she tried too hard or didn't know what she was talking about.
Now Connor on the other hand, I had a bit of a love/hate with him. I didn't like the way he fucked around and how he could push her away at times. They both did it to each other but when she tried to let him in, he was always pushing her away and that pissed me off. He said one thing but did another. And we all know that actions speak louder than words so when I would read about him doing things that made me want to fling my iPad across the room, well you can understand why it wouldn't be as easy for me to forgive as Pilar did. Don't get me wrong though, she was no doormat and never let him get away with his crap. But by the end, I knew that he really loved her and as he said once he's in, he's all in. I loved committed Connor and I loved seeing his soft side when he would think about his future with Pilar.
Things have progressed significantly in this book when it comes to club business and I'm as nervous as always. Honestly I just keep praying that none of them die. By the end of each book I just think about how perfect and happy each couple is and then instantly my next thought it "OMG she's going to kill him isn't she?!" I don't think I'll ever be able to read her books without thinking that but I'm hoping and praying that this series will be different. Her muse Lola needs to back the heck off and leave this family alone (please).
I have a feeling I won't be getting much work done until I finish catching up with this series which will mean some serious damage to my sleep but I find I don't mind much (LOL). On to the next book!!
I honestly don't even know what to say about this book right now. It's the fastest I've read a book in a really long time. It's just that I literally could not put this down. I swore to myself I was just going to read the first chapter and then I wouldn't read until I finished my work but somehow I looked up and 3 hours had passed by and I hadn't moved once from my spot. And I took a moment to process that...and then I went right back in.
This book isn't easy. These characters are not easy to read at times. Pilar is tough as nails and the way she went after what she wanted, including men, kind of surprised me a bit in the beginning. But I loved her character and I loved how sure of herself she was. It also didn't hurt that she was hispanic. It's always nice to me to see some diversity in books and I love how perfectly Susan Fanetti brought it in without making it look like she tried too hard or didn't know what she was talking about.
Now Connor on the other hand, I had a bit of a love/hate with him. I didn't like the way he fucked around and how he could push her away at times. They both did it to each other but when she tried to let him in, he was always pushing her away and that pissed me off. He said one thing but did another. And we all know that actions speak louder than words so when I would read about him doing things that made me want to fling my iPad across the room, well you can understand why it wouldn't be as easy for me to forgive as Pilar did. Don't get me wrong though, she was no doormat and never let him get away with his crap. But by the end, I knew that he really loved her and as he said once he's in, he's all in. I loved committed Connor and I loved seeing his soft side when he would think about his future with Pilar.
Things have progressed significantly in this book when it comes to club business and I'm as nervous as always. Honestly I just keep praying that none of them die. By the end of each book I just think about how perfect and happy each couple is and then instantly my next thought it "OMG she's going to kill him isn't she?!" I don't think I'll ever be able to read her books without thinking that but I'm hoping and praying that this series will be different. Her muse Lola needs to back the heck off and leave this family alone (please).
I have a feeling I won't be getting much work done until I finish catching up with this series which will mean some serious damage to my sleep but I find I don't mind much (LOL). On to the next book!!
December 18, 2015
Wow! I think this just moved into the top two books I have read from Fanetti. Powerful and gripping. This is her wheel house and she just keeps getting better and better.
March 12, 2017
FIVE STARS*****
You are my hero...
Another masterpiece. This series keeps getting better and better.
You are my hero...
Another masterpiece. This series keeps getting better and better.
June 16, 2015
Connor Elliot is the Horde's SAA and the son of the President. So far, he had been enjoying his life as an outlaw biker, tapping chicks half his age and constantly wearing his devilish smirk.
Pilar Cordero is the town firefighter. Her tough woman exterior reminds me of Lilli from Signal Bend. Initially when she was introduced as someone who enjoy fucking stranger at the back of a bar, I'm worried that she is too tough for her own good. Her competitive streak also threw me in a loop. Why does she need to win in everything?
They both have this combustible chemistry, but are too much of a coward to admit they wanted more out of it. Connor might seems like douche at first, but I chalked it up to this being a hardcore MC, so his douchey action didn't faze me.
However, no matter how much I like Connor, I don't see him as a great romantic hero here because he didn't get enough chance to showcase his heroic stunt to make me swoon. When Pilar came to him for help with her little brother, that's the only moment that I see something in him that might make Pilar fall for him. But other than that.... hmm, too much drama with the Horde and his family for him to really shine. Instead, I'm fascinated with Trick and Hoosier/Bibi.
Another thing that annoyed me is the whole 'Moore' situation. I tend to dislike reading about heroine having a best male buddy. Connor might seems like a jealous prick, but imagine if the situation is reverse with Connor having a close girl buddy, we will be throwing rotten eggs at him. So I call this bullshit and totally hate Pilar fussing over Moore.
Even with some squabble I had with this book, I find myself truly engrossed with everything that went down in Fire & Dark. Susan Fanetti always had the knack for stirring up the drama to make me freaking out for her characters. I can't wait for Trick's book. And the thing with La Zorra and her shady husband? I hope Susan will consider writing about them. Seeing that they are not part of the MC, the chance might be slim though.
Pilar Cordero is the town firefighter. Her tough woman exterior reminds me of Lilli from Signal Bend. Initially when she was introduced as someone who enjoy fucking stranger at the back of a bar, I'm worried that she is too tough for her own good. Her competitive streak also threw me in a loop. Why does she need to win in everything?
They both have this combustible chemistry, but are too much of a coward to admit they wanted more out of it. Connor might seems like douche at first, but I chalked it up to this being a hardcore MC, so his douchey action didn't faze me.
However, no matter how much I like Connor, I don't see him as a great romantic hero here because he didn't get enough chance to showcase his heroic stunt to make me swoon. When Pilar came to him for help with her little brother, that's the only moment that I see something in him that might make Pilar fall for him. But other than that.... hmm, too much drama with the Horde and his family for him to really shine. Instead, I'm fascinated with Trick and Hoosier/Bibi.
Another thing that annoyed me is the whole 'Moore' situation. I tend to dislike reading about heroine having a best male buddy. Connor might seems like a jealous prick, but imagine if the situation is reverse with Connor having a close girl buddy, we will be throwing rotten eggs at him. So I call this bullshit and totally hate Pilar fussing over Moore.
Even with some squabble I had with this book, I find myself truly engrossed with everything that went down in Fire & Dark. Susan Fanetti always had the knack for stirring up the drama to make me freaking out for her characters. I can't wait for Trick's book. And the thing with La Zorra and her shady husband? I hope Susan will consider writing about them. Seeing that they are not part of the MC, the chance might be slim though.
December 19, 2015
I think this one is my favorite so far in this series. I was bored out of my mind with the first two books, and it took some effort to read them, but with this one - the story flowed so nicely. It was much harder to put it down. Love the connection between the two main characters, but like in the two previous books I was annoyed with them too, not as much but still.
Connor's jealousy didn't make much sense, he should have been appreciating that there is someone always having Pilar's back not throwing jealousy fits whenever she is with her best friend. I liked Pilar (love her name btw), but with her 'I need you to hurt me' didn't make much sense. I get that she liked kinky and rough sex, but the 'hurt me' was a bit out of place.
I finally got into their cartel stuff and while I am a bit scared that it will go badly soon, I am also sort of excited that it will go badly. If that makes sense...huh
I am not sure I am feeling the SoCal Horde family though. With Signal Bend series, I always felt the family ties and love they all had for each other. In SoCal series I don't feel it much. I enjoyed Trick's and Connor's friendship and I loved Connor's moment with Demon, but apart from that there wasn't much else. Other bikers who don't have a book yet should have already been introduced but I have a trouble recalling the names of the other single 7. Khm....
Anyway, I enjoyed this one, more than I enjoyed the previous books in this series (not counting Nolan's) and I can't wait to start Trick's book.
Connor's jealousy didn't make much sense, he should have been appreciating that there is someone always having Pilar's back not throwing jealousy fits whenever she is with her best friend. I liked Pilar (love her name btw), but with her 'I need you to hurt me' didn't make much sense. I get that she liked kinky and rough sex, but the 'hurt me' was a bit out of place.
I finally got into their cartel stuff and while I am a bit scared that it will go badly soon, I am also sort of excited that it will go badly. If that makes sense...huh
I am not sure I am feeling the SoCal Horde family though. With Signal Bend series, I always felt the family ties and love they all had for each other. In SoCal series I don't feel it much. I enjoyed Trick's and Connor's friendship and I loved Connor's moment with Demon, but apart from that there wasn't much else. Other bikers who don't have a book yet should have already been introduced but I have a trouble recalling the names of the other single 7. Khm....
Anyway, I enjoyed this one, more than I enjoyed the previous books in this series (not counting Nolan's) and I can't wait to start Trick's book.
May 20, 2015
***3.5 stars***
May 9, 2015
First of all, I love Fanetti’s writing. That said, I’ve hesitated to read any of her newer series until they’re complete because I’ve been traumatize by the Signal Bend one. But I couldn’t resist a firefighter heroine and I had to just dive into this book. I liked every obstacle that came up in Pilar and Connor’s relationship. I liked how they started first on a purely sexual relationship, and how they came to realize that there could be more between them. This was where I got frustrated. Pilar was a strong heroine, but I didn’t like that it had to be her all the time who made the first move, or had to be the one to make Connor face what they have. Thankfully she didn’t come across as pathetic but Connor did.
I probably need to read the first two books to understand exactly how Dora Vega came to power and how the allegiance with Horde came to be what it was today. The conflict between the Horde and the Assassins Gang and it’s effect on Pilar and Connor’s relationship was well crafted. In fact, I liked it a lot. It was suspenseful and had me all tensed up. This would have been a five-star-read if Connor manned up in the aftermath of that conflict. Instead, Pilar became the emotional scapegoat for Connor and I hated he did that.They both suffered losses and were hurting, but again Pilar turned out to be the stronger one. It didn’t make sense to me even when Connor explained why he acted out because let’s face it, Connor was the outlaw, blowback was a way of life for them and yet he was the one who went off the rails.
He did a little groveling, but I think Pilar was too understanding. LoL! And it isn’t a good sign when I’m rooting for the heroine’s best friend instead.
I loved Pilar and I loved there were scenes that showcased her as a badass firefighter.
I think this is my problem with most MC books. There’s loyalty to the club, and loyalty to the woman you love. I guess I’m too much of a romantic, but I want the hero to be irrevocably committed to the heroine that there wouldn’t be any doubt he would choose her no matter what shit came their way.
I probably need to read the first two books to understand exactly how Dora Vega came to power and how the allegiance with Horde came to be what it was today. The conflict between the Horde and the Assassins Gang and it’s effect on Pilar and Connor’s relationship was well crafted. In fact, I liked it a lot. It was suspenseful and had me all tensed up. This would have been a five-star-read if Connor manned up in the aftermath of that conflict. Instead, Pilar became the emotional scapegoat for Connor and I hated he did that.They both suffered losses and were hurting, but again Pilar turned out to be the stronger one. It didn’t make sense to me even when Connor explained why he acted out because let’s face it, Connor was the outlaw, blowback was a way of life for them and yet he was the one who went off the rails.
He did a little groveling, but I think Pilar was too understanding. LoL! And it isn’t a good sign when I’m rooting for the heroine’s best friend instead.
I loved Pilar and I loved there were scenes that showcased her as a badass firefighter.
I think this is my problem with most MC books. There’s loyalty to the club, and loyalty to the woman you love. I guess I’m too much of a romantic, but I want the hero to be irrevocably committed to the heroine that there wouldn’t be any doubt he would choose her no matter what shit came their way.
July 4, 2015
Title: Fire & Dark #3
Author: Susan Fanetti
Rating: 1 absolutely revolting star
POV: Dual
HEA:
Heat/Steam who cares
Cliffhanger: . No.
Intolerable Heroine .Yes. Major doormat
Über Douchebagery .yes.
Taboo Subject Matter .Yes.
Cheating:
Love Triangle
Wow. This is the second book in the series that I've had to stop reading. I had always loved that I could go into this authors books blind without having to worry about cheating.
The hero fucks a club whore THE SAME MORNING he leaves the heroines house after having slept with her the night before. His excuse? She had said no to his request to fuck in the morning (because she had to go to work) and he had blue balls.
The list of offenses were just endless
1. Continuously calling her the same idiotic nickname he calls all his fucks, "puss"
2. Fucking a club whore the morning after he leaves her house
3. Her agreeing to hang out with him after he tells her straight up that he's going to go fuck a club whore as he's walking out the door
3. Having just been fingering some 21 year old girl on his lap then fucking the heroine in the back of the bar. All I could think of when he went to touch her was "eww he's rubbing another woman's filthy body fluids on you"
4. Her not walking out on the date after some of the comments he made
5. Him purposely making a douchey comment after she shares deep personal information about herself. Also, the fact that she didn't throw her drink in his face and walk out.
6. After he tells her her doesn't want more from her and leaves her he continues to fuck other women.
That's not even the half of it. To top it all off she's the loser that says "I love you" first. Oh and the real kicker?
Something bad ends up happening and our "hero" chokes her so hard she can feel his fingers digging into her throat well after it happens. Oh and she easily forgives him.
Throughout the entire book it's the heroine chasing him. Even when he's standing there telling her he didn't want her she still practically begs him to wait. Trying to force him into accepting that there's something between them. How desperate are you? I was so looking forward to reading about Pilar because the blurb makes her seem like such a bad ass. Unfortunately, she was a weak doormat who apparently enjoyed being treated like a whore.
I had loved signal bend because while it was dark and gritty the heroes were good to their women.
Another one bites the dust. You've lost a loyal fan, Fanetti. I won't be reading anymore books in this series and I won't be going into anymore of her books blind.
Fucking disgusting.
May 16, 2015
Disappointed
This is a hard one for me to rate. For the most part I loved this book. Like REALLY loved it! Pilar was awesome; she was fun, she knew what she wanted and she went after it. I never quite managed to feel the same for Connor though.
Throughout the majority of the book, Pilar is always there for Connor, holding his hand through the tough times and being there. Yes, she had other important people in her life but she stayed by Connor and her first thought was always him.
Pity I couldn't say the same about Connor for Pilar. Lucky she had Moore though - he was a kick arse best friend and stepped in because Connor was too selfish. But the story as a whole was riveting.
Then at 90%, the story lost me. When Connor did what he did, then walked away, I hated him. Then four days of radio silence before he finally shows up? I can't even begin to stress how disappointed I was in Pilar at how quickly she forgave him. Unfreakingbelievable!!! As a reader, I felt so let down. I wanted Connor to do something big, to show Pilar how much she means to him, but once again its her closing the distance between them and making everything okay. I lost respect for her and what little regard I had for Connor disappeared.
I do love this author and have enjoyed every other book of hers that I've read. Just not this one. I will of course read the next book...I just wish this one had worked for me.
This is a hard one for me to rate. For the most part I loved this book. Like REALLY loved it! Pilar was awesome; she was fun, she knew what she wanted and she went after it. I never quite managed to feel the same for Connor though.
Throughout the majority of the book, Pilar is always there for Connor, holding his hand through the tough times and being there. Yes, she had other important people in her life but she stayed by Connor and her first thought was always him.
Pity I couldn't say the same about Connor for Pilar. Lucky she had Moore though - he was a kick arse best friend and stepped in because Connor was too selfish. But the story as a whole was riveting.
Then at 90%, the story lost me. When Connor did what he did, then walked away, I hated him. Then four days of radio silence before he finally shows up? I can't even begin to stress how disappointed I was in Pilar at how quickly she forgave him. Unfreakingbelievable!!! As a reader, I felt so let down. I wanted Connor to do something big, to show Pilar how much she means to him, but once again its her closing the distance between them and making everything okay. I lost respect for her and what little regard I had for Connor disappeared.
I do love this author and have enjoyed every other book of hers that I've read. Just not this one. I will of course read the next book...I just wish this one had worked for me.
August 4, 2015
There is one thing about Susan Fanetti, she can write great stories. Each one different and intriguing. This one is about Connor (Horde's SAA) and Pilar a female firefighter. While each are out for a good time with no strings, the pull is there and they can't fight. Then of course the outside world, Horde MC and Pilar's connection to a Hispanic drug gang that try and pull them apart. Like I said Susan creates a great story to bind these two together.
May 22, 2015
Of course a five stars! My favorite book in the serious so far
May 22, 2015
Hmmm. I liked this story, but I didn't LOVE this story. Still, 4 Stars means I liked it a lot.
A few things that worked for me:
The action picked up! There was a slow simmer in the previous stories, and Fanetti has a way of sneaking things up on you before you even know it and then BAM! I have been cautiously proceeding through this series wondering when the shit is going to hit the fan. I'm not sure that the shit has officially hit the fan, but things were taken to the next level in this one. It's officially ON.
I really liked that this story gave us some background on Hoosier and Bibi. I didn't know that they were going to get a book (since they are already a couple), and after reading Fire & Dark, I can't wait to hear their story, especially Bibi's.
This book also piqued my interest in Trick. He seems like a very interesting character, and I can't wait to get inside his head.
There were a few things I didn't like:
The story seemed to drag a bit at parts, and I had to put it down a few times to get through those.
Also, I had trouble connecting to Pilar. I love that she's a hero firefighter, but I notice that I don't connect as well with the heroines that protest too much. She was just a bit too aggressive to me, like she was trying too hard to be like one of the guys. She wanted to be Cordero, the badass girl who hangs out with the guys, but she also wanted to be Pilar, the sexy tom girl who showed her feminine side in her relationship with Connor. I totally get that dichotomy. I also like strong heroines (I loved Lilli), but for some reason, Pilar just was not my cup of tea.
I know that some people were upset that the characters weren't exclusive in the beginning, but that didn't bother me as much because both characters were adamant about no strings attached. While one character may not have chosen to mess around after they first became physical, she still went out of her way to assert that they were free to do whatever they pleased. A biker guy is going to act on that freedom if given the choice. Once the relationship became exclusive, it stayed exclusive. Like Connor said, when he's in, he's in.
Also, I know people wanted more groveling by Connor at the end, but I wasn't as bothered by that situation as others apparently were. Not that I condone his actions, but I just understood the context of the situation, and I know how deeply remorseful Connor was. He didn't set out to do what he did, it happened during an intense moment, and although he hadn't been the best boyfriend in the weeks before the "event," but he was grieving and in pain, and from a human perspective, people deal with pain differently. Again, it doesn't make it right, but I was empathetic to his plight. I didn't hold it against Pilar that she was able to understand where he was coming from. She did assert that she was no longer going to be an emotional punching bag, and I don't think that she needed to drag out the drama when she was empathetic to Connor and knew how she felt about him. I didn't look at her as weak. They're not my favorite couple, but they work for each other, which is what matters.
Overall, I'm excited to see how things progress, and curious how a similar setup to what happened in the Signal Bend storyline will be handled differently in this one. Guess I'll just have to wait and see.
A few things that worked for me:
The action picked up! There was a slow simmer in the previous stories, and Fanetti has a way of sneaking things up on you before you even know it and then BAM! I have been cautiously proceeding through this series wondering when the shit is going to hit the fan. I'm not sure that the shit has officially hit the fan, but things were taken to the next level in this one. It's officially ON.
I really liked that this story gave us some background on Hoosier and Bibi. I didn't know that they were going to get a book (since they are already a couple), and after reading Fire & Dark, I can't wait to hear their story, especially Bibi's.
This book also piqued my interest in Trick. He seems like a very interesting character, and I can't wait to get inside his head.
There were a few things I didn't like:
The story seemed to drag a bit at parts, and I had to put it down a few times to get through those.
Also, I had trouble connecting to Pilar. I love that she's a hero firefighter, but I notice that I don't connect as well with the heroines that protest too much. She was just a bit too aggressive to me, like she was trying too hard to be like one of the guys. She wanted to be Cordero, the badass girl who hangs out with the guys, but she also wanted to be Pilar, the sexy tom girl who showed her feminine side in her relationship with Connor. I totally get that dichotomy. I also like strong heroines (I loved Lilli), but for some reason, Pilar just was not my cup of tea.
I know that some people were upset that the characters weren't exclusive in the beginning, but that didn't bother me as much because both characters were adamant about no strings attached. While one character may not have chosen to mess around after they first became physical, she still went out of her way to assert that they were free to do whatever they pleased. A biker guy is going to act on that freedom if given the choice. Once the relationship became exclusive, it stayed exclusive. Like Connor said, when he's in, he's in.
Also, I know people wanted more groveling by Connor at the end, but I wasn't as bothered by that situation as others apparently were. Not that I condone his actions, but I just understood the context of the situation, and I know how deeply remorseful Connor was. He didn't set out to do what he did, it happened during an intense moment, and although he hadn't been the best boyfriend in the weeks before the "event," but he was grieving and in pain, and from a human perspective, people deal with pain differently. Again, it doesn't make it right, but I was empathetic to his plight. I didn't hold it against Pilar that she was able to understand where he was coming from. She did assert that she was no longer going to be an emotional punching bag, and I don't think that she needed to drag out the drama when she was empathetic to Connor and knew how she felt about him. I didn't look at her as weak. They're not my favorite couple, but they work for each other, which is what matters.
Overall, I'm excited to see how things progress, and curious how a similar setup to what happened in the Signal Bend storyline will be handled differently in this one. Guess I'll just have to wait and see.
July 18, 2015
Well it took me a while to get into this one. I didn't like that while Connor was with Pilar in the beginning he was still hooking up with the club girls. I know he's a biker and that is what they do but I don't like it. Also Connor was stupid jealous all of the time. I just didn't feel them as a couple. I did like the little glimpses in on Faith and Demon and the gang. I really am looking forward to Trick's book though I wish he still had the dreads lol
July 26, 2020
I really enjoyed the MCs. Pilar's strengths remind me a lot of Lilly's in the original series. This couple has probably been my favorite of this series. Loved Fanetti is tying in Dora Vega. She is seeming like she might be a nutcase. I really want more of her husband's story.
Re-read 7/2020. Wasnt feeling either character this go around. Not really into this group/chapter at all, just wanting to get to the end to tie the 2 series together...
Re-read 7/2020. Wasnt feeling either character this go around. Not really into this group/chapter at all, just wanting to get to the end to tie the 2 series together...
May 10, 2015
So So Good, Loved it, I think this might have been the best one yet and I really loved the first two. Going to read the side trip now.
After reading this any thoughts on who Trick might end up with, if he gets a book? I have a guess :)
After reading this any thoughts on who Trick might end up with, if he gets a book? I have a guess :)
06-reasons
September 14, 2017I'm purposely not rating this book. I haven't really liked Connor in book 1 & 2. Now Demon in book 2 is a raving lunatic but it worked. I think if I had been able to connect with the heroine then I wouldn't have stopped at 39% of the book.
So there wasn't the whole talk of being fuck buddies etc. So no harm, no foul, right? For me it is wrong.
Ms. Fanetti is a hit or miss author for me. Enjoy to all of you lovely readers.
So there wasn't the whole talk of being fuck buddies etc. So no harm, no foul, right? For me it is wrong.
Ms. Fanetti is a hit or miss author for me. Enjoy to all of you lovely readers.
June 14, 2015
4.5 stars
June 16, 2015
I love this series and Susan Fanetti! It was great to finally get to know Conner. I cannot wait for Hoosier and Bibi's book!
August 28, 2022
2 stars
I’m sorry but Connor did nothing but try to make me hate/dislike him.
He was too free with his “love” towards other girls when his involvement with the heroine transcended that of a casual hookup. He had no issue spreading the love around. No second thought.
He was also unreasonably hardheaded about placing blame, when really no one forced his actions so if he wants to blame someone - he can blame himself.
He actually almost killed the heroine in a moment of insanity - let’s call it - and instead of staying and helping, he left her there.
She forgave him for everything every time with little grovel or any. She was a strong woman except when it came to Connor. In my opinion they were toxic for each other and that goes beyond their book (as seen in snippets from the rest of the series).
Connor was a major disappointment and he never really recovered. I don’t think I can give him the same benefit of the doubt I gave Demon, simply because Connor is smarter and knows what he’s doing so he did all he did with a clear - ish head.
Oh, and I just remembered, he nicknames women “puss”. Anyone he’s not related to him in any way he instantly calls “puss”, even the heroine. And that’s short for “pussy” which is what women outside the ones who matter, signify to him. I have read plenty of sexist stuff, and sexist characters who get a redemption throughout the story (example: Havoc from the Signal Bend, Nigh Horde MC series) but Connor never changed. He stopped calling Pillar that but that’s it. I just didn’t feel the love and respect I wanted him to have towards her. I didn’t I like him as a person. Initially, I did, but the more I read the more he messed up and proved that he’s just not redeemable in a way which satisfies me.
I’m sorry but Connor did nothing but try to make me hate/dislike him.
He was too free with his “love” towards other girls when his involvement with the heroine transcended that of a casual hookup. He had no issue spreading the love around. No second thought.
He was also unreasonably hardheaded about placing blame, when really no one forced his actions so if he wants to blame someone - he can blame himself.
He actually almost killed the heroine in a moment of insanity - let’s call it - and instead of staying and helping, he left her there.
She forgave him for everything every time with little grovel or any. She was a strong woman except when it came to Connor. In my opinion they were toxic for each other and that goes beyond their book (as seen in snippets from the rest of the series).
Connor was a major disappointment and he never really recovered. I don’t think I can give him the same benefit of the doubt I gave Demon, simply because Connor is smarter and knows what he’s doing so he did all he did with a clear - ish head.
Oh, and I just remembered, he nicknames women “puss”. Anyone he’s not related to him in any way he instantly calls “puss”, even the heroine. And that’s short for “pussy” which is what women outside the ones who matter, signify to him. I have read plenty of sexist stuff, and sexist characters who get a redemption throughout the story (example: Havoc from the Signal Bend, Nigh Horde MC series) but Connor never changed. He stopped calling Pillar that but that’s it. I just didn’t feel the love and respect I wanted him to have towards her. I didn’t I like him as a person. Initially, I did, but the more I read the more he messed up and proved that he’s just not redeemable in a way which satisfies me.
July 25, 2020
Another great addition to this series. They’re all very different. I love it.
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